Madu River Boat Safari Tourism

The Madu River is a wetland situated in the southwest of Sri Lanka near Bentota. The river flows through the town of Balapitiya and into the Indian Ocean. The Madu River Boat Safari is a popular attraction among tourists who are keen to explore the area's rich biodiversity. During the boat ride, visitors can witness a variety of flora and fauna including mangrove forests and marshland. The ecosystem around the Madu River hosts approximately 303 species of plants and 248 species of vertebrate animals. The safari offers a chance to see crocodiles in their natural habitat along with water monitors, birds, and several species of fish unique to the ecosystem. This tranquil boat ride also provides an opportunity to visit small islands, some of which host old Buddhist monasteries. Locals use the river for their daily transportation and also engage in traditional fishing techniques. A notable feature of the safari is the traditional 'fish pedicure' where visitors can dip their feet in the water to let tiny fish nibble away dead skin.